Cervical cancer is a cancer that only affects women. However, a vaccine approved for both men and women, ages 9 to 45, can provide protection.
According to Dr. Clara Tang, MD, an obstetrician/gynecologist with SSM Health Medical Group in Oklahoma City, high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) are detected in more than 99% of cervical cancers. HPV vaccination and diligent screening can help prevent the disease.
Tang explained that high-risk strains of HPV are not only responsible for cervical cancer, but also cancers of the vagina, vulva, anus and oropharynx (throat and back of neck). Low-risk strains of HPV are associated with genital warts. The HPV vaccine protects against nine strains of HPV, including both high- and low-risk strains, to guard against both these cancers as well as genital warts.
“We have seen a decline in the incidence and mortality rates of cervical cancer in resource-rich countries, particularly in women of younger age groups,” Dr. Tang said. “This is thought to be due to improved adherence to cervical cancer screening, as well as increased HPV vaccination rates and a younger age at vaccination.”
Dr. Tang went on to explain that there is a natural time period of 10 to 15 years for HPV-related cancerous changes to develop, so significant decreases in overall cervical cancer rates likely won’t be seen until multiple years after implementation of HPV immunization programs.
Any woman who has been sexually active is at risk for cervical cancer. Low socioeconomic status, including poor access to healthcare, and tobacco use are also factors that increase the risk for the disease.
While early-stage cervical cancer can be asymptomatic, symptoms that may be associated with it include irregular vaginal bleeding, bleeding after sex or a foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Symptoms associated with more advanced disease may include pelvic pain, pelvic pressure or back pain that radiates down the back of the leg(s). “Unfortunately, many of these symptoms are non-specific and can also be related to other non-cancerous conditions, so it is best to seek evaluation from your gynecologist,” Dr. Tang said.
The 5-year relative survival rate of all persons affected by cervical cancer is 67%. Early diagnosis is crucial for having the best outcomes, Dr. Tang explained. “The 5-year survival rate can range from greater than 90% for early stage to 19% for advanced stage.”
Pap smears are screening tests for cervical cancer. The goal of Pap smear screening is to detect any early pre-cancerous changes to the cervix and intervene before the affected cells have a chance to progress to cervical cancer.
Want to schedule a women’s health exam or find out if the HPV vaccine will help you or your child? Find an SSM Health physician today.
